Pompallier Mission 1842

Overlooking the breathtaking Bay of Islands and surrounded by an attractive turn of the century garden, Pompallier is New Zealand’s oldest surviving Roman Catholic building.

Built in 1841-42 under the direction of architect Louis Perret, it was used as a printery, tannery and storehouse for the French Marist mission in Kororareka (now known as Russell). The buildings were sold in 1856 and continued as a tannery for a few years before being altered to become a private home. Later bought by the State and opened to the public, Pompallier has undergone extensive award-winning conservation work and is now a working museum where past methods of tanning, printing and bookbinding can be seen.

Open:

Daily 10am - 5pm (November - April)

Daily 10am - 4pm (May - October)

Closed Christmas Day